RTA, Transport Security and UITP establish MENA transport security committee

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Transport Security Department and the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) have established the first committee specialised in the security of transport in the MENA region. 

“The agreement is aligned with the vision and ambitions of our government to ensure the safety of public transit means and facilities for the happiness of riders, be it residents, visitors or tourists. The initiative is part of RTA’s continuous efforts to rank Dubai amongst the top metropolises in various respects including this vital field,” commented Al Mulla, RTA Board Member and Chairman of the Higher Committee of MENA Transport Congress and Exhibition.

“The selection of Dubai as the headquarters for the first security committee in the MENA region, was endorsed during UITP Congress held in Stockholm, Sweden last June,” added Al Mulla.

“The Transport Security Committee encompasses members from all entities concerned with the security of transport in the MENA region. This initiative is an achievement for the public transport security sector in the UAE. It epitomises the tireless efforts of the Transport Security Department in Dubai since established in 2009. The Department is keen on implementing the highest levels of transport safety and security,” said Obaid Al Hathboor, Director of Transport Security.

“The establishment of the committee is in line with the strategic plan of the department for boosting the security of transport in Dubai. They aim to be the first advisory platform for UITP members in the MENA region. It will offer them access to cumulative experiences and enable them to share knowledge about the best global practices such that preventive measures are taken to tackle potential security threats in the transport sector”, he added.

“It was decided to set up specialist teams for investigating transport security accidents, develop technical standards for the security of transport sector, improve procedures and plans for combating disasters and share intelligence with the concerned bodies to ensure a pioneering global role in the security of this sector.” 

The Transport Security Department held meetings with a variety of organisations, universities and specialist institutes of transport security to accredit the training and innovation centre.

Al Hathboor also revealed that the Department would build the first and biggest metro demo station. It spans an area of 3225 square feet and rises eight metres in height. “Building this station will provide practical training replicating reality by using artificial intelligence for theoretical and practical training. Training includes detecting strange items and handling suspicious at stations. It will also enable the training of specialist teams on handling suspects in the station and developing tactical plans accordingly. This strategy for qualifying and training of human resources is at part with the highest training standards in preparation for hosting Expo 2020,” he explained.